Gallery

Alex's Favorite Works

Alex has been blessed to work with art teachers who have stretched his use of art media, tools and styles.

While his early pieces were mostly done in watercolor pencil, he has broadened his works in other areas, such as acrylic paint, pencil, pastels and watercolor. For someone who loves his routines, moving into areas outside his comfort zone can be challenging!

But with the guidance, patience and gentleness of his loving teachers, Alex’s art has helped him adapt to grow and develop by doing things in new and exciting ways -- with wonderful results!

The Koi

Alex’s signature piece. Done in water-color pencil, the original is 28 inches by 21 inches, and is filled with his meticulous detail. Taking about 18 months to complete, the Koi illustrates what Alex’s art is all about.

Starry Night

Alex’s interpretation of Van Gogh’s classic. This was his first foray into the world of painting, guided by his loving Chicago teacher Tricia, and it became a real favorite. Alex loves the Big Dipper, and he made sure to include it!

Alex's Rainier

Much of Alex's childhood was spent in the Seattle area, and he loved Mount Rainier. And in keeping with Alex's recent discovery of color and the texture of acrylic, we now have Alex's impression of his mountain.

Peacock Feather

Perhaps his finest example of Alex’s painstaking attention to detail, this beautiful piece illustrates two traits Alex brings to his art – he is a perfectionist and loves to combine colors.

Whale's Tail

One of Alex's first pieces inspired by his new teacher Deb Burow's bright and colorful style, Whale's Tail borrows sailboats from Alex's home by the lake in a more ocean-like setting Can you spot the whale's tail?

Rainbow Bridge

Originally an exercise piecein color and composition,after Alex completed itwe realized thatthis rainbow bridge has special significance for those of us who have lost a beloved pet and see hope and comfort.

Flowering White

Completed in August 2020, Flowering White shows Alex's continued development with acrylics, as he combines his precise strokes of flowers with big bold stripes of color. We can expect more exploration in color and composotion!

Two Vases

Bright colors and open shapes stand out in Two Vases. Alex's Dad has this one hanging near the pantry where he makes his morning coffee. Pretty good way to start the day, don't you think?

Tricia's Bouquet

Alex loved working with his teacher Triciain the Chicago area.Shestretched Alex,as showninTricia’s Bouquet. Twine and painted paper are glued to the canvas, and she talked him into sprinkling green paint over the still life! We love Tricia!

Cabin Reflections

Alex’s beloved grandfather R. Thomas Nelson would go every summer to a fishing cabin on a lake deep in western Ontario. After his grandfather passed away, Alex created his version of the cabin on a placid morning, and gave it to his Uncle Tom Nelson, who continues the Canada fishing tradition.

Queen II

For vacationers at the Iowa Great Lakes, the Queen II excursion boat is an icon, giving leisurely tours of West Lake Okoboji. Alex loves the Queen, and he created his version for his Grandmother, Wanda Nelson, who displayed it proudly at her home.

Old Locks Bridge

His only pencil work to date, Alex drew this during regular visits to the Ballard Locks in the Seattle area. Alex drew this free handed -- without a ruler, straight edge or any other assistance. And note the depth and shading of the bricks on the bridge piling.

Simply Orchids

One of a few exercises to build some speed in a born perfectionist, this simply beautiful piece has become an attractive cover for greeting cards. It’s a wonderful way of sending flowers and warm thoughts.

The Lady

The piece that showed us what Alex could do. He was asked if he could drawand painta wooden sculpture of a beautiful lady.He said yes, and he did. We were amazed to say the least –and off he went!

Candle Flames

A very early piece that was the product of experimenting with use of color and technique, Candle Flames has an intriguing depth and eye-drawing movement.